Edinburgh attractions

Before they featured in the hit TV show Outlander, the 18th-century Preston Mill and neighboring Phantassie Doocot were two of Edinburgh and the Lothians’ lesser-known historic sites. Since then, the landmarks have enjoyed a well-deserved boost in popularity and are now considered some of the area’s most picturesque destinations. Both dating back to the 16th century, the mill and former pigeon house are worth visiting for their quirky architecture and stunning surroundings.

Established on Blackford Hill in 1896, the Royal Observatory Edinburgh is an astronomy tower that houses the largest telescope in Scotland. The cylindrical tower, which is also host to the University of Edinburgh’s Astronomy Department, offers panoramic views of the surrounding hills from the observatory grounds.

Owned by the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS), this sprawling hillside zoo is home to more than 1,500 animals, from Sumatran tigers and lions to pygmy hippopotamus and giant anteaters. The star attractions, however, are the penguins—known for the daily strolls they take outside their enclosure—and the UK’s only giant pandas: Tian Tian and Yang Guang.

Located in Edinburgh’s trendy Leith neighborhood, Ocean Terminal is a shopping and leisure center with more than 70 stores; a handful of cafés, bars, and restaurants; and sweeping views of the Firth of Forth. Permanently berthed alongside the terminal is the decommissioned Royal Yacht Britannia.

The Edinburgh Cruise Port at Leith—the largest enclosed deepwater port in Scotland—welcomes large cruise ships just northwest of Edinburgh on the River Forth. Conveniently situated just minutes from Edinburgh proper, this port is a popular jumping-off point for trips to the city's Old Town, medieval castle, and other historic attractions.

Stockbridge Market is a lively Sunday spot with around 50 independent traders selling street food, artwork, local delicacies, and one-of-a-kind crafts made by Edinburgh artisans. A fun and tasty weekend outing, here you can sample local beer, indulge in handmade chocolates, or browse old records. It's a great place to explore, with plenty of vintage shops, cafés, and pubs nearby in the bustling Stockbridge area.

Under the shadow of the mighty Edinburgh Castle, Princes Street Gardens offer a serene escape in the heart of Scotland’s bustling capital. Marking the boundary between the Old and New towns, the gardens comprise two public parks (East and West Princes Street Gardens), which both have plenty to offer.

Just outside Edinburgh, Portobello Beach provides a sandy retreat with stunning views of the Firth of Forth. This charming seaside destination has a wide promenade perfect for strolls, as well as cozy cafés and independent shops. Ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and picnics, it’s a beloved spot for locals and visitors looking for a relaxing day by the sea.

Leith is a port area often touted as one of Edinburgh’s coolest neighborhoods. A former industrial warehouse district and Scotland’s main trading port of the 18th century, it has since transformed into a go-to spot for independent shops, bars, cafes, and restaurants along the waterfront. Visitors can also check out Leith Market, the Royal Yacht Britannia, and the Ocean Terminal shopping center.

Located just north of the small town of Linlithgow in West Lothian, Linlithgow Loch is the largest natural freshwater loch in the region. Outdoor sports enthusiasts find plenty to do here: trout-fishing, sailing, canoeing, kayaking, and more. The most famous attraction, however, is Linlithgow Palace, perched on the loch’s north shore.

Edinburgh Castle sits 430 feet (130 meters) above sea level on the summit of Castle Rock, a volcanic plug in the center of Edinburgh. Easy to spot from almost anywhere in town, the castle and rock are an arresting sight, and the top of the rock affords sweeping city views.

Set on parkland, this 16th-century tower house offers stunning views of the Firth of Forth estuary. The property’s elegant frozen-in-time interiors showcase the life and style of an upper-middle-class family in Edwardian-era Scotland, with collections of antique furniture, artwork, and decorative objects, from porcelain to Oriental rugs.

One look at the grand facade of Newhailes House makes it easy to see why the 17th-century villa is hailed as one of Scotland’s most impressive National Trust properties. Along with boasting an eclectic mix of architectural styles and materials—including Chinese decor, Italian marble, and rococo interiors—the house is surrounded by 84 acres (34 hectares) of gardens and woodlands.

Perched on the southern tip of Iona—part of the Inner Hebrides islands off Scotland’s west coast—St. Columba’s Bay is said to be where St. Columba and his fellow monks entered Iona in the 6th century. The remote bay is the ideal place to escape to, and is also a breeding site for Atlantic seals. With some luck, you might spot a seal pup basking on the beach.